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Scrape-off-layer current loops and floating potential in limited tokamak plasmas

Journal Article · · Journal of Plasma Physics

We investigate the question of how plasma currents circulate and close in the scrape-off-layer (SOL) of convection-limited tokamak plasmas. A simplified two-fluid model describes how currents must evacuate charge at the sheaths due to cross-field currents that are not divergence-free. These include turbulence-driven polarization currents and poloidally asymmetric equilibrium diamagnetic currents. The theory provides an estimate for the radial profile of the floating potential, which reveals a dipolar structure like the one observed experimentally. Simulations with a fluid turbulence code provide evidence for the predicted behaviour of currents and floating potential.

Research Organization:
General Atomics, San Diego, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC)
DOE Contract Number:
FG02-95ER54309
OSTI ID:
1538929
Journal Information:
Journal of Plasma Physics, Vol. 83, Issue 6; ISSN 0022-3778
Publisher:
Cambridge University Press
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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